Perfectly Amusing

Happy 6th Birthday to TCDITW - Elsie

2012-01-22T09:23:00.000-05:00

Happy 77th birthday ELVIS (tomorrow) Jan 8, 2012

2012-01-07T20:24:00.002-05:00

Born January 8, 1935.
This photo is from the 1968 Comeback Special.

Million Dollar Quartet at the Straz Center, Tampa, Florida

2012-01-04T17:03:00.002-05:00

Tonight I am going to see this show for the second time. Well, the first time I worked the show. I'm a volunteer usher at the Straz Center. I missed a few minutes of the show due to my usher responsibilities but thankfully the center offers reduced tickets for the volunteers and tonight I'm going to be sitting in a seat vs. standing at the door. Thanks to the Straz Center for the volunteer opportunity.
If you don't know the story of the MDQ, google it and enjoy. If you get the chance to see this production... GO!

Happy Holidays 2011

2011-12-24T16:14:00.001-05:00

Where's the cookies?

Moreland and Arbuckle free concert: Please vote for SUNCOAST BLUES SOCIETY details below

2011-11-22T22:37:00.004-05:00

Please help me bring this band to tampa for a benefit show for Suncoast Blues Society.

No personal information is required. If you are reading my blog... please take one minute and make a few clicks for me:

1. go to www.telarc.com/justadream

2. click 'get M&A to your blues society'

3. click the radio button next to SUNCOAST BLUES SOCIETY (4th on the list)

4. scroll down and click done

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE BLUES and helping to bring M&A to Tampa for my awesome blues club.

shelley

Only one vote per computer. Period. Only one vote. But... if you have more than one computer in your home or you work with an office full of people, everyone can vote! :)

VOTING ENDS NOVEMBER 30th SO PLEASE VOTE TODAY!
SEND TO YOUR FRIENDS, FAMILY, CO-WORKERS!
Yes, I'm begging.

Music in Los Angeles - Trombone Shorty, Merle Haggard, Chris Kristofferson, Kenny Neal, and a blues jam at Cork's

2011-11-07T13:41:00.008-05:00

Charlie invited us to Cork's in LA for a jam session. When we arrived we realized we were actually at a birthday party jam. It was a lot of fun and we enjoyed the performers. This is the legendary Phil Upchurch on guitar. The keyboard player performs on the Tonight Show. I have videos in The You Tubes if you are interested.

Charlie and Tawni watching a video of the lady in green below. I can't remember her name but she is a blues singer and also actress. Later we showed her the video and she was so happy to see herself on the phone screen!
As I'm editing this blog, the photo below won't turn 'right side up' for some weird reason and I've speent too much time messing with it. This lady had to be in her 60s at least. At first glance, she looks young. When she passed by and you got a look at the crow's feet and the wrinkled hands... well, you know what I'm talking about. She was having a good time at this show and I hope if I live to be her age that I'm out there partying too ....sans the blue hair, thick eyeliner, and micro-dress of course.I found this poster in the bathroom hallway. Love Steve McQueen. I didn't bring this poster home with me. hahahaha

One reason I went a little earlier this year was to attend this concert at the Greek Theatre in LA. What a great show.

It was cold so we broke out the furs and hats.

I have a friend in San Diego and I told him I was in town. He said wow - Kenny is playing in LA this weekend too. So, off we went Saturday night to the casino in Inglewood to hang with Charlie and Kenny.
We also attended the Trombone Shorty show at the El Rey Theatre in LA. Trombone Shorty had the crowd of about 1500 rockin' and groovin'. Cool shot of the three of us. Again, I need a better camera! This one is great for outdoor shots but inside - yikes. The El Rey is very nice inside.

October in Los Angeles

2011-11-07T13:25:00.003-05:00

I spent almost three weeks in Los Angeles with Tawni and Lyndon. I had a great time hanging out with them and appreciate their warm hospitality.

Among other things which I will also post separately we....
- Spent time at It's a Wrap http://www.itsawraphollywood.com/
- Shopped at the Vintage Clothing Expo. The second day I sat in the sun outside people watching and reading. It was a beautiful day in Santa Monica
- Watched THOR! yes, I finally got to experience the wonder that is THOR... I don't know what the movie was really about but I did enjoy the eye candy
- cooked a few dinners and also baked some yummy pumpkin cookies
- went out to dinner here and there
- enjoyed some live music and karaoke too! (no, I did NOT sing)
- worked every weekday
- browsed a cool antique shop
- dressed like ghouls
- attended a fashion and make-up event at nordstroms which was really fun
- other stuff I've forgotten
- was totally spoiled

September stuff

2011-11-07T13:04:00.007-05:00

I can't really remember everything that happened in September but my birthday was in there someplace and a few of us celebrated at Skippers with Tab Benoit. Another group also had a scrumptous brunch at Oystercatchers.

Apparently I dog watched sometime in either late august or september because I found this photo on my PC:

Sookie, Dexter, Elsie, and Annabelle Beep-Beep

I also did my first City Bike Ride in September. I would love to do more of these but it was kind of strange doing this alone. We started at the museum and biked to 3-4 restaurants downtown. It really was much more eating than biking but it was fun.

September also found me with a 'snake in the pool' dilemna. Now I know, this snake isn't very big. It is a ring-necked black snake and they don't get much larger. BUT - a snake is a snake and I don't like them... especially in the pool. I let it float around for a while with the hopes that it would drown. I then realized that snakes don't drown. They swim. So, I decided to be a big girl and take care of the situation. I used the pool net and scooped it out and deposited in the grass.

I attended Lynn Marino's baby shower.

I spent a lot of time in the stamp room making cards for September birthday gifts. I also listed many items on ebay.

There may be more events and happenings but I can't recall right now so it is time to move on.

Paul Thorn Band at the Neighborhood Theatre, Charlotte, NC

2011-11-07T12:40:00.004-05:00

I don't have many photos from this show. I had to steal from Facebook the first three here. I guess I wasn't in a picture-taking mood. Also, I remember the lighting in this place was not so great. I did shoot a few videos and they can be found in The You Tubes. ;) Giant mushrooms inside the club.

Tracy, Ralph, and Shelley

Liz and Michael

Outside the theatre.

Michael in motion. I need a new camera. :)

Paul Thorn Band at Ziggys, Winson-Salem, NC

2011-11-07T12:16:00.008-05:00

Another reason we ventured north was to hang out with our friends. We arrived in Asheville early Thursday morning and then later that day hit the road for Winston-Salem. This was my first visit to WS and I really liked the town. I especially loved the HUGE Goodwill store near our hotel. We spent a few hours there Friday morning.

Before we checked in I requested stop at a wine shop and purchased a few bottles for Ralph and I to enjoy at each show. At the show I noticed these small cans of PBR everywhere. I know someone who would have loved these cans of beer!

Jeffrey Perkins clicking the sticks.

Ralph Friedrichsen on bass.
Me and Paul. My required self-portrait.

Ralph pointing at ME for some reason!

Backstage there was a working video game. We had fun taking turns. Of course Michael had the high score.

Michael Graham

Bill Hinds groovin'

Billy Maddox doing his job. And a fine job he's doin'!

I couldn't resist this sneaky self-portrait of me and this funny t-shirt.\

Suzy at the merchandise table.

Michael and one of Bill's guitars.

Happy Jeffrey

Just jammin'

self walking tour of Charlotte - NASCAR, World's Strongest Man, The Green, Niki De Saint Phalle

2011-11-07T11:51:00.003-05:00

In an earlier post I mentioned the Carolina Panther sculptures that I had to go see in person after the excitement I felt looking at them as we drove by on our way into town. Fortunately our hotel was just steps away from many sites of downtown Charlotte.

I don't know what is housed in this building but we thought it was pretty neat and made a nice background for a photo. Later we chanced upon a very cool sculpture garden "The Green" with a literary theme and nice fountains. Fountains that appear to not be working at the particular moment that one is standing over one of the spouts. One of the hidden spouts in the ground where one walks in a circle reading the literary quotes which surround the HUGE FISH fountain which is clearly spouting and splashing water. Oh, and then... the hidden, non-working fountain springs to life and totally wets the dumb person standing directly over one of the spouts. Yes, that would be me. It was like taking a garden hose and spraying my crotch. It looked like I had wet my pants. So, what does an intelligent girl do who doesn't want everyone on the street to think she had an accident? She moves over to the left and then to the right so as to soak her entire lower body... including shoes. What was I supposed to do? We were blocks from the hotel and had no intention of going back right away. So, I walked on with my soaked drawers.

http://youtu.be/daqI52W3v6I This is a short video I shot walking around the sculpture.

We then headed towards the NASCAR Hall of Fame Museum. How could we not? We were jus steps away from the fastest growing sport in the world. hahahahahaha

We didn't pay to go inside but I did snap this photo of some of the cars. I would have liked to go in and look at all of the artifacts but we didn't have time and it wasn't free. HOWEVER, the bonus the day we were there was taking place outside.

THE WORLD'S STRONGEST MAN COMPETITION! ok, I admit, I'd NEVER heard of this until we walked up and Tracy explained it to me. CRAZY!

http://youtu.be/yVD0L2XNgkI Here is a video of the US contestant. Yes, he is carrying a car. A Yugo I believe. A car. Carrying a car. I'm sure some of the 'stuff' has been taken out of the car. Well, wait... did Yugos have anything extra in them to begin with???

http://youtu.be/W2nGKl5kPeM Here's another video. I'm not sure which country this Strong Man represents but he did a fine job as well.

I know most of you reading this really want to know what happened with my wet drawers. Well, we had the bright idea of using the hand dryer in the NASCAR museum. Great idea right! Well, those cheapskates don't have a blow dryer in there. So, I walked around the city as-is and the pants eventually dried. I got a few looks at first but who cares! It could have been worse. I could have really had an accident in my pants.

Tour of North Carolina - September 2001

2011-11-07T11:45:00.003-05:00

My main intention was to visit Rocky and Jean. Rocky will be 91 on 11/25.

We also FINALLY were able to do a quick run through the Biltmore. I hope to get back here before the end of this year. I want to see the christmas display.

View from one of the porches at the Biltmore home. If you've never been and you find yourself in Asheville, take a couple of hours and visit the grounds. You won't be disappointed.

Tracy, Liz, and Shelley

self portrait by shelley

Carolina Panther sculpture at the stadium in Charlotte, NC

2011-09-18T18:24:00.000-04:00

Harley Davidson Ladies Leather Jacket, Tattoo Embroidered Button Shirt, and other items for sale - liquidating some of my stuff!

2011-09-03T20:38:00.004-04:00

Click the links below to get to my ebay auctions for full descriptions. Thanks for looking and I hope you find something you like!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/320753664361?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649

http://www.ebay.com/itm/320753671981?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649

Everyone - read this - and if you want to break up with me, I will be OK with it - it is your life too!

2011-09-01T17:58:00.001-04:00

A friend shared this with me and I found it humorous and oh-so-true.

http://yourkickasslife.com/featured/things-you-might-be-doing-that-are-making-your-life-suck

Tribute to Amy Winehouse - we miss you ( russell brand bruno mars tony bennett ) video

2011-08-31T10:11:00.006-04:00

When I first heard Amy on my local public radio station years ago (wmnf 88.5 in Tampa - wmnf.org online for streaming) I knew she was something special. I immediately bought the only CD I could find at the time online - FRANK - and it was in constant rotation around here. Her second release brought her millions more fans and she became well known as she deserved.
An amazing talent - singer/songwriter - adorable - stylish - she had it all. Unfortunately she also had a fateful disease.
Too young. Gone too soon. Her music will live on.

Damon Fowler Group at the Orange Peel, Asheville, NC August 10, 2011

2011-08-13T10:48:00.003-04:00

details tofollow... just wanted to get these photos uploaded first. Aren't we three pretty girls? :)

Elsie and Annie spend an afternoon with Maggie - oh what fun!

2011-08-05T13:04:00.005-04:00

This is my fav photo - Maggie and Elsie in motion! The little dogs would stay under the table and Maggie ran circles around the room. Hilarious.
http://youtu.be/mCZLYaZwBbw

They were exhausted after a few hours of playing with Maggie.

She's so adorable when she sleeps. And then she wakes.... ok, she's adorable when she is awake too.

Butterfly factory! Look close, I think there will be about 5 butterfiles eventually

2011-07-31T12:22:00.005-04:00

These little guys are busy eating my parsley but I'm okay with the herb sacrifice. I'll be enjoying the end result soon. BUTTERFLIES!

from http://www.thebutterflysite.com/life-cycle.shtml

The Butterfly Life Cycle

Let’s explore a butterfly’s life cycle in detail, including all four stages of life. All butterflies have "complete metamorphosis." To grow into an adult they go through 4 stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult. Each stage has a different goal - for instance, caterpillars need to eat a lot, and adults need to reproduce. Depending on the type of butterfly, the life cycle of a butterfly may take anywhere from one month to a whole year. You can print out this Butterfly Life Cycle coloring page to follow along as we talk about the 4 stages.

Butterfly Eggs on a Leaf The First Stage: The Egg

A butterfly starts life as a very small, round, oval or cylindrical egg. The coolest thing about butterfly eggs, especially monarch butterfly eggs, is that if you look close enough you can actually see the tiny caterpillar growing inside of it. Some butterfly eggs may be round, some oval and some may be ribbed while others may have other features. The egg shape depends on the type of butterfly that laid the egg.

Butterfly eggs are usually laid on the leaves of plants, so if you are actively searching for these very tiny eggs, you will have to take some time and examine quite a few leaves in order to find some.

Butterfly Caterpillar The Second Stage: The Larva (Caterpillar)

When the egg finally hatches, most of you would expect for a butterfly to emerge, right? Well, not exactly. In the butterfly’s life cycle, there are four stages and this is only the second stage. Butterfly larvae are actually what we call caterpillars. Caterpillars do not stay in this stage for very long and mostly, in this stage all they do is eat.

When the egg hatches, the caterpillar will start his work and eat the leaf they were born onto. This is really important because the mother butterfly needs to lay her eggs on the type of leaf the caterpillar will eat – each caterpillar type likes only certain types of leaves. Since they are tiny and can not travel to a new plant, the caterpillar needs to hatch on the kind of leaf it wants to eat.

Caterpillars need to eat and eat so they can grow quickly. When a caterpillar is born, they are extremely small. When they start eating, they instantly start growing and expanding. Their exoskeleton (skin) does not stretch or grow, so they grow by “molting” (sheding the outgrown skin) several times while it grows.

Caterpillar Becoming a Chrysalis The Third Stage: Pupa (Chrysalis)

Monarch Caterpillar Becoming a ChrysalisThe pupa stage is one of the coolest stages of a butterfly’s life. As soon as a caterpillar is done growing and they have reached their full length/weight, they form themselves into a pupa, also known as a chrysalis. From the outside of the pupa, it looks as if the caterpillar may just be resting, but the inside is where all of the action is. Inside of the pupa, the caterpillar is rapidly changing.

Now, as most people know, caterpillars are short, stubby and have no wings at all. Within the chrysalis the old body parts of the caterpillar are undergoing a remarkable transformation, called ‘metamorphosis,’ to become the beautiful parts that make up the butterfly that will emerge. Tissue, limbs and organs of a caterpillar have all been changed by the time the pupa is finished, and is now ready for the final stage of a butterfly’s life cycle.

Daisy keeping watch over Elsie and Annabelle Beep-Beep

2011-07-31T12:21:00.000-04:00

Annabelle Beep-Beep is one year old today

2011-07-28T07:00:00.004-04:00

A year ago today a little puppy was born in Florida. Here is Annie in the garden. I love this little dog but she is the perfect image of a Chihuahua. She's an ankle-biter, a yapper, and is aggressive towards Elsie.
Seriously, when someone comes in the house, she wants the attention and will run along their feet and bites ankles. How do I break this habit?
She recently discovered her voice and will bark at random every now and then, at nothing. Well, maybe her bionic ears hear something and she has a valid reason to bark but to me, it seems like she's yapping to just yap. Of course, then Elsie gets in on it and I have even more yapping.
Agressiveness; She and Elsie play all the time which is what I wanted, a companion for Elsie. They get rough sometimes and you hear the growling and yips of 'back off bitch' too. However, the 'I'm going to rip your face off' aggression is what freaks me out. This happens once a day or every other day. Elsie is not aggressive at all and just takes the abuse. It usually happens when they are both on my lap or if a toy or chew stick is involved. How do I break this bad behaviour?
Overall, I do love this little dog and am happy I have her. However, she is the reason that many people do not like Chihuahuas. Maybe as she gets a little older she will calm some and realize that she does not have to be, nor is she Top Dog.

She loves to play in the garden. Digging holes is a skill she learned from Elsie and she is very good at this task.

She wants to dominate Elsie. In this photo one might think 'ohhh, cute, she's protecting Elsie' when in fact, she's sitting on her, trying to get her to move.

She likes to be right next to me and that causes conflict with Elsie (and sometimes Daisy too). She is adorable but she's a feisty little thing.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNABELLE BEEP-BEEP!

Our flight is delayed but we made the most of it

2011-07-24T21:48:00.001-04:00

It's hot in the city, let's go to the beach

2011-07-24T21:24:00.003-04:00

Monday morning and it is our last day of vacation. I've always wanted to check out the beaches from Coney Island to the Hamptons so I decided to take the opportunity on this trip. I think it was a great ending to a fabulous trip to New York. First, we had to get to JFK to rent the car. We took the subway for one last time to the AirTrain. That connection drops you at the airport. We loaded the car and off we went. I brought Tom with me and he finally kicked in and helped us navigate although I have to admit I didn't use him a lot and made him mad by going off his route. He got over it.

One thing we quickly learned is that there are no free beaches or beach parking along this route. At this stop, we had to park in a lot reserved for condo residents. We ran up to the boardwalk, looked at the beach, snapped a few photos and got back to the car before it was towed or ticketed!

We started at Rockaway and stopped at many beaches between there and Southampton. We could see the beach and water here and there but weren't able to get on the beach without paying and since we were limited on time, we didn't get out. Lesson learned: next time, take the train from the city to Rockaway or Coney Island and spend some time on the beach.
We drove for a few hours and of course got hungry again so we stopped at the Massapequa Diner. From there we continued east to Southampton and shot this photo on some beach, somewhere along the way.

Here is one of the small beach cottages you find in Southampton. Isn't it adorable? Seriously, this area is gorgeous. I can see why the city dwellers escape here. I could escape here - if I could afford it. We walked around the village and bought a few books at the quaint bookstore. I picked up a few real estate magazines - not really magazines, more like books. The properties inside range from 800K to over 40 million. Beautiful homes but dang, they are HUGE and in some cases ridiculous.

The little black car in the back is our rental car. We are parked in a lot which is private and requires a sticker for parking. Note the cool surfer truck. I need to meet the owner of that truck! Stickers were present which means this person lives in one of those little beach cottages.

The next few photos don't truly represent the beauty of this huge roadside garden at someone's home. This garden wrapped around the corner and was in full bloom.

Many of the homes were surrounded by huge hedges. Many of these hedges were being trimmed while we were there. I guess it was hedge-trimming day?On the road into the village there was an interesting yard-art store. Of course we had to stop for the photo opportunity.

Lady Liberty IS a lot smaller than she looks!
Dinosaurs in the Hamptons!

We embraced the subway, many times every day... love the train

2011-07-24T21:19:00.003-04:00

Only two photos for this most important topic. . . We were on the subway constantly. I love being able to walk a couple of blocks and get on a train that takes you where you want to go. No car required. It's not cheap though. We bought 7 day unlimited passes for 29.00 and about wore out the cards.
The fare is 2.50 - every time you go through the gate.

Lincoln Center, Columbus Circle, and a couple of free drinks

2011-07-24T21:07:00.002-04:00

We spotted this written on the street on our way to the train station!

We took the train to Lincoln Center and looked in the windows and enjoyed the fountain.

This is our last evening in the city and we are tired but don't really want to leave. There is so much to see and do. I'd love to live here for about 3 months. I'd probably still not see everything but I'd whittle the to-do list more. This trip I was able to cross many things off that list - and added more. It is a list-in-progress for sure. I love the city and can't wait to go back.

After we returned to the hotel, I used my coupon for 2 free drinks that was given to me upon check-in. You have to be 21 to go in a bar in NYC (just learned this!) and they thought Bailey was of age until I ordered her a diet coke. She went next door to buy us some snackie cakes and I decided to just do a double shot of tequila, quick and easy, and then we headed to the room for our nightly 20 minute shower (not really but seemed like it and felt so good), packing, and planning our next day. What's next? We head to JFK and rent a car and go someplace I've wanted to see for many years. . . . The Hamptons.

Sunday Morning, off to the Hell's Kitchen Flea Market, Brooklyn Bridge, and back to the Village

2011-07-24T21:00:00.004-04:00

Shopping at the flea market.

We then took the subway to the station nearest the Brooklyn Bridge and we walked across the bridge.

After we finally made it to the other side (it's not really that far, it was just REALLY HOT and we stopped a few times to sit in the shade) we walked to the next train station and headed back to the village. We sat in Washington Square Park for a while before heading to dinner. We passed the Terra Blues club and one of my favs was smiling at me from the window:

Various food we sampled in NYC

2011-07-24T20:48:00.003-04:00

Pho Soup with a thin layer of grease due to the fatty beef used. Not terrible but I've had better. Vegetable curry. yum

This was a cucumber/avocado roll. Was.

Cheesecake at the Film Center Cafe. The cheesecake at Juniors was yummy and HUGE - no photo - sorry - you'll have to go there and try it yourself. This cheesecake was very tasty and creamy. We had no problem eating it.

Ferrara Chocolate Dipped Cannoli

Sorbet and fruit refresher at Ferrara's . . . before the pannini and cannoli

Cannoli we had before we headed to Coney Island - after our dinner at Zen Palate. Wish I had shot photos of that dinner.

At Zen we ordered a few things but the prettiest was the pineapple fried rice which they served in a hollowed, half pineapple. Not only was it beautiful, it was fantastic tasting. I'd go back to this place too.

We also enjoyed Tapas at a place in the village (bad photo, sorry) and that is a place I would visit again if given the chance.

There are so many wonderful restaurants, on every corner, every street, that you could eat someplace different for years - never have to try the same place twice unless you really wanted.

Saturday night in the city

2011-07-24T20:28:00.003-04:00

After Memphis and saying goodbye to the Penneys, Bailey and I headed to the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA). I was excited to see what was behind those walls. We were both a little tired and a little hungry but we decided to go for it. We had to walk a few extra blocks because the address provided on the internet was not correct. WHAT? Yes, google was wrong. LOL We found it though and headed into the cool air. We worked our way up, up, up and looked at every room. We could have spent hours in there reading about the artists, etc. MOMA houses Picasso, Pollock, Kahlo, VanGogh, Dali, Warhol, Mapplethorpe, and 1000s of other artists; it is an amazing place. I asked Bailey if she could take home ONE, just ONE item in the museum what it would be and right now I can't recall the name of the sculptor. I do know the piece is a beautiful gold sculpture. My choice was easy. Oh-so-easy. I want the Warhol ELVIS. I want a poster of this print to frame and put in my kitchen. I need to start my google search now for this poster. What do you think?

After MOMA, we headed out for FOOD because we were STARVED now. Directly across the street was an Asian restaurant and of course we both wnated to go there. It wasn't terrible but it wasn't the best I've had. You can't go wrong with a veggie sushi roll but the Pho soup was greasy - a no-no. Her curry was good but again, we've had better.

After dinner we headed south down 5th to do a little more window shopping and went in a few stores before they closed. We walked through Rockefeller Center (or maybe that was earlier in the week?!?! my days are blending together now) and headed to Times Square to do a little more shoe-watching. I was having fun looking at all of the people and their various shoe choices. From flats to the highest heels, combat books to ugg boots, flip flops to birkenstocks, converse to nikes, wedges, pumps, moccasins, you name it, we saw it.

Two tired girls then headed to the hotel for a much needed night's rest. Oh, but first, a pit stop for some fruit and other snackie cakes.

Saturday morning, let's sleep in a little!

2011-07-24T20:24:00.002-04:00

Saturday morning we didn't have to be anywhere except the Memphis box office at 10am to buy student tickets. So, we took advantage of this and slept in a little.
After the ticket purchase we went to Times Square and did a little shopping (Levi's, H&M, Forever 21, etc.) We quickly tired of that and headed back to the hotel to meet M&J. They had an early tour of the NBC studios. Today is their last day in the city so they also had to pack and get their bags on the bus. Our show was at 2pm and it was wonderful. Student tickets for this show are always in the first row which sounds great except that the seats are almost against the stage and you kinda get a pain in your neck craning to see what is going on . . .but for the price, no complaints. I love this show.

Central Park bike ride, carriage ride, and dinner at Film Center Cafe

2011-07-24T20:14:00.004-04:00

We rented bikes and mom waited for us somewhere on 5th near central park. We were gone only an hour. John lost us twice on this ride and the second time I didn't try to find him! Bailey and I worked our way through part of the park and rode out of the park to see the Metropolitan Museum of Art and then back in to weave our way back to mom. We returned the bikes and I had decided earlier that I wanted to rent a horse and carriage to take mom through the park since she didn't get to see any of it.

The driver was nice and knowledgeable about the points of interest in the park and I thought it was a nice, relaxing way to end the tour of Central Park. I still haven't seen the entire park. Another item to add to the to-do list. Next time I want to rent bikes for 2 hours and take a leisurely ride through the park. :)

After the carriage ride we walked south to Hell's Kitchen (area just a couple of blocks from our hotel) and ate dinner at the Film Center Cafe. Another nice restaurant with great food. Thanks to Restaurant.com for the coupons. I randomly picked three restaurants from a list of 100s and so far, the two coupons we used (FCC and Zen) were wonderful.

Is it Friday already? The Penney's last full day in NYC

2011-07-24T19:41:00.007-04:00

Today we walked a couple of blocks east to 5th and then south to the Empire State Building. The Chryslter Building is in the distance behind mom and john. We arrived at the Empire State Building and the crowd had not yet formed. Riding the escaltor up to the ticket floor.

We bought our tickets and worked our way through the displays on the way to the elevator. This is kind of a staging area for when the place is packed. Lots of facts to read, photos to examine, etc. We then boarded the first elevator which takes to you the 86th floor I think. Then you get on a second elevator to the viewing area.

That pointy building in the center of the photo is the Chrysler Building again.

Finally a photo of me with the parental units. I bet you were beginning to wonder if we were really on vacation together, huh.

Bailey loves mirrors and the reflective glass was perfect. :)

Some views from the top:

After we left the ESB, we took the train to the World Trade Center site. The construction is in process and the site is surrounded by chain link fence. We didn't stay long. Mom and John wanted to go to Yankee Stadium so we sent them on the orange train north which I learned later did not go all the way to the stadium for some reason but the conductor helped them transfer and get off. Then, they discovered that the dang museum wasn't even open because Paul McCartney was in town and for some silly reason they had to close it. weird. They then took the green train south to central park and waited for us.

We headed to Chinatown and then walked to Little Italy. I wanted to see the tenement museum but we didn't have enough time. Something to add to my list for the next trip to the city. I wanted to eat at Ferrara Cafe www.ferraracafe.com and we found the place a few blocks away. The food was wonderful and I had my first chocolate covered cannoli. The third cannoli of the trip. It was worth every dollar.

We then headed to SOHO to meet a friend for a snack. My first Pink Berry ice cream (or is it yogurt?). We also did a little shopping while waiting. SOHO is pretty once you get away from the store fronts! Back to Central Park to meet the Penneys and go for a bike ride through Central Park.

We need a break from walking . . . let's take the train to Coney Island and ride the Wonder Wheel!

2011-07-24T19:14:00.007-04:00

After dinner, and a pit stop back at the hotel for Bailey's shoes, we took the subway to Coney Island. The ride took about an hour and it was nice to just sit for a while instead of walking. The train emptied out at every stop and by the time we reached the end of the line, we were the only riders! I was worried for a few minutes that Coney Island would be closing soon or that we'd be the only people there. But we used google (of course) to check the hours of operation and the park is open until midnight. Before we left the station we tried to use the restrooms. GROSS. One of the dirtiest restrooms I've ever seen. We left the station and stopped in the Dunkin Donuts hoping for better. A little better but not much. We walked across the street to the park and this was our view: The full moon over the park was beautiful. The photo does not do it justice. Of course we had to ride the Wonder Wheel. I think it was $3 for the ticket.

Sign above the entrance to the Wonder Wheel.Sign with history of the Wonder Wheel.Bailey in our car on the ride.
View from the top of the Wonder Wheel. It was very cool being there at night. Next time I will go during the day so I can see the beach and boardwalk.Moon over the boardwalk.On the way out I spotted the Zoltar machine. Bailey has not yet seen the Tom Hank's movie BIG. I told her if she started acting like an 8 year old I'd be bringing her back to Coney Island immediately. She loved the fortune Zoltar provided. We stayed about an hour between the ride, the walk on the boardwalk, and just looking around and then headed back to Manhattan. Fun.

Columbia University, Morningside Park, and Zen Palate for dinner

2011-07-23T22:30:00.002-04:00

Bailey rows for Tampa Catholic and she wanted to see Columbia University's boathouse. So, we took the red train to almost the last stop uptown. This train was elevated for part of the way and it was neat seeing parts of the city I've never visited. We got off the train and walked a couple of blocks north. After walking west for a few minutes I couldn't figure out where this dang place was located. Based on the address provided by google it should have been right THERE! There was a lady walking her dog so naturally I asked her for directions. Of course she didn't speak English. LOL So we walked back towards the Columbia athletic building on the corner. Meanwhile, a golf cart was approaching us from behind and we were in the way. The men were driving into the drive way of the athletic building . . .so. . . naturally I asked them if they knew where this place was . . .well, of course they did and one of them gave us a tour in that golf cart. I was very happy because again, it was HOT and it was a long walk to who-knows-where. He had fun chatting with us and I think Bailey enjoyed seeing the boat area. After the tour we got back on the train and headed south a few stops to the Columbia campus. We walked through the campus and shot a few photos. On the other side of the campus is Morningside Park.

We walked through the park and continued a few blocks over to Harlem and to the train station. In Harlen, across the street from the station, nestled between two buildings, we spotted this green space.

We took the train to our usual stop and walked north a block or so to a restaurant for dinner. The Zen Palate is a vegan restaurant and the food is fabulous. www.zenpalate.com

Battery Park, Wall Street, Flatiron Building, Eisenberg's Deli - twice!

2011-07-23T22:06:00.005-04:00

We walked to Battery Park and did a little people watching. We then decided to walk over to Wall Street and check out the NYSE, the Federal Reserve, and of course, The Bull.

After we walked around there awhile we decided we were hungry. I wasn't sure when the Liberty tour would end and what time we'd meet the Penney's. I decided we'd take the train up a couple of stops to Union Square. There is a thrift store a couple of blocks off that stop and I figured we'd find something to eat. It's NY, food everywhere! Well, I wasn't paying attention and we missed the Union Square stop. We got off at the next stop and what a pleasant surprise. The Flatiron Building!We looked around and saw a few places to eat and spotted this place across the street: Eisenberg's Sandwich Shop. What a fun place. Their motto: Raising NYC's cholesterol since 1929.

After this we headed back downtown to meet the Penneys and since we liked this place so much, we convinced them to go there for lunch. I'm not sure they liked it as much as we did but I'd go back.

www.eisenbergsnyc.com

Thursday morning - Staten Island Ferry and more

2011-07-23T21:57:00.004-04:00

Today the parental units and their tour headed to the Statue of Liberty. I took Bailey to the Staten Island Ferry for a ride on the water and a cruise-by of the statue. This is a free ferry that goes back and forth all day between Manhattan and SI. The launch is next to Battery Park, where the boat takes you to the statue, so we all rode the same train down. Well, we were supposed to ride the same train but the group was a little slow getting on. Bailey and I hopped the first train and just waited at the end of the line for them to catch up with us!
Lady Liberty is over her shoulder and looks tiny. In real life you can really see her and also Ellis Island. Here's a zoomed shot of her:

Wednesday afternoon and evening

2011-07-22T22:48:00.003-04:00

We left the village and headed uptown to meet Mom and John. The four of us walked south on 5th Avenue and stepped into St. Patrick's Cathedral. After that we stopped for lunch at a little pizza place and headed towards the hotel. They had show tickets for that night and I had other plans for us. I wanted to see the Apollo theatre so we headed uptown again on the train and then walked a couple of blocks to the theatre. It was lightly raining so we didn't stay. We got back on the train and got off a few stops south because I wanted Bailey to see the Museum of Natural History. Unfortunately the entire facade was covered with scaffolding and net as you can see below. We couldn't go in because it was after hours!
We continued our walk south to the Dakota and after a pit stop at the Starbucks we arrived just in time to see the sunset. The Dakota is the building to the right. Standing at this point, if you turned around you'd find yourself at an entrance to Central Park. In this location you find a part of the park dedicated to John Lennon. This 2.5 acres is called Strawberry Fields.

This tile memorial is found in Strawberry Fields. I'm told that the offerings and the display pattern change every day.We then headed east through the park and heard music in the building across from Bethesda Fountain (photo below). We didn't have tickets to the show so we had to trudge on. Still heading east, we made it to 5th avenue (again) and headed south. I'm getting tired at this point.When we got to the southeast corner of the park I had to stop for a break. We were across the street from the Plaza Hotel. We rested for a few minutes and then continued our trek towards Times Square and our hotel.

Off to the Village

2011-07-22T22:41:00.002-04:00

Bailey wanted to see the campus of NYU and I love the village so I planned some time for us to explore this part of the city. I located a couple of thrift stores and she found a pair of shorts, jeans, and sunglasses in one store and you will see those sunglasses soon after this post.
Fountain in Washington Square Park

The gardens everywhere were in full bloom but the gardens in Washington Square Park were especially beautiful.

More fountain shots.

The kids were having fun splashing and an occasional adult too. It was another very hot day in the city.

We walked over to the information center of NYU and she picked up some literature. We then walked to the thrift stores and back to the train station. We were meeting Mom and John at the Rockefeller Center for some site seeing. They were taking a tour of the Top of the Rock.

Hotel Chelsea

2011-07-22T22:34:00.003-04:00

One of my many things to see in Manhattan is the Chelsea Hotel or Hotel Chelsea, depending on your mood I suppose. This hotel is rich with history and I am going to stay here someday. The train station is just steps away and from that station you can get anyplace you want in the city. It's quiet and off the beaten path. My kind of place in more ways than one.

I enjoyed just sitting in the lobby and thinking about the many people who stayed at the hotel. If you are interested, here's the site: www.hotelchelsea.com

First evening in Times Sqaure

2011-07-22T22:28:00.002-04:00

After the show we walked over to Times Square, sat on the curb, and people watched. Two tired girls.

Book of Mormon lottery losers but HAIR winners!

2011-07-22T22:12:00.003-04:00

I REALLY wanted to see the play Book of Mormon but since it won many Tony awards... well, it is sold out for six months. Many of the broadway shows have what is known as a 'lottery' a couple of hours before curtain. BoM still conducts their lottery even though they could easily sell those tickets. Lottery works pretty much the same at each show - just the price varies. You arrive ~2.5 hours before curtain and put your name in 'the hat' - 30 minutes later names are drawn and if you win, you are given the option to buy up to 2 tickets for the show at a reduced price.

I convinced Mom, John, and 2 other people in their tour group to enter the lottery with me and Bailey. So, we had SIX entries. Yippee! Well, when we got to the theatre there was already a large crowd. We put our names in the hat and the crowd kept growing. John estimates there was at least 250 people waiting to win about 25 tickets. We didn't win.

Well, one of my all-time favorite shows is HAIR and it opened again for a short summer run. Bailey and I walked over to that theatre to buy student tickets. Some theatres offer a limited number of student tickets at a reduced rate each day. You have to arrive when the box office opens (or at a time designated by the theatre) and wait in line for these tickets. Theatre tickets seem to cost from 70.00 to hundreds per ticket. I tend to go to the shows where I can get either lottery or student tickets. Call me cheap. I say frugal. HAIR student tickets are 37.00.

But I digress. When I went to buy student tickets the man said 'we are starting our lottery in 10 minutes, you should try that first'... the HAIR lottery worked the same way. The lottery price is 27.00 per ticket. So, we entered the lottery and didn't win. sigh. SOMETIMES the shows have a Lottery Losers Line where lottery losers like me can purchase the next best seats at a reduced price. This varies by show too. (BTW, there is a great website that is updated consistently with this info)

Bailey and I entered the LLL and waited. The lady running the lottery came over to sell us our tickets - but she surprised us instead with a FREE PAIR OF TICKETS! Sweet.

So, since I was now about 80.00 ahead I decided to treat us to a snack at Sardi's. I had been to Sardi's last year and loved it. It is steps from this theatre and we had fun eating our cheese and salad plate with diet cokes.

www.sardis.com I'm sure I embarrassed her a little with my dancing during the show. We were in the nose bleed seats so no one noticed. I had fun. My first night in the big city at my fav show after a snack at sardis. yay.

First Stop - Grand Central Station, then to the Libray, and off to the Edison Hotel

2011-07-22T21:49:00.006-04:00

Our flight landed on time at LaGuardia airport. We bought our MetroCards and found the bus that would take us to subway station. Our good trip karma began. We walked out, the bus was there, we got on, and off we went. No waiting. After a few stop and about 30 minutes we were in Harlem at the subway. We took the green train south to Grand Central Station. Since the plane was on time, it was too early to check in . I had pre-planned a few stops in between the subway and the hotel of course... The first stop was easy . . . the inside of Grand Central Station. Beautiful!

When you leave Grand Central, if you look east you will see the Chrysler Building. We didn't go over, just looked at it from the street. From here we walked west towards the magnificent New York Library.

It was very hot and we were carrying our backpacks so the stop at the library was welcome in more ways than one. The inside of the library is just as spectacular as the outside - but a lot cooler. We looked around for a bit and after we had seen the reading room we exited and started our walk to the Edison Hotel, our home for the next six nights.

The parental units weren't at the hotel yet and we were hungry so I took Bailey around the corner and we found Daniela's restaurant. Good Italian food and my first cannoli of the trip. Funny thing about this place... we walked by it a few times and each time the meal prices on the sign kept increasing.

We arrived at the hotel and found the parental units. Our room was not ready so I checked our bags and took Bailey on another walk. This time we walked to Times Square and headed north to Central Park and Columbus Circle. Again, it was very hot and we stopped here and there to rest. At Columbus Circle we took the blue train back to the station near the hotel. This station would become very familiar to us. Our room was still not ready so we sat in the lobby for a while. Bailey was smart and took advantage of the quiet time.

Another nap in the Edison Hotel lobby while we wait for our room.

Bailey and Shelley's most excellent adventure begins . . . off to New York City!

2011-07-22T21:04:00.002-04:00

We had a very early flight to the big apple. Two excited girls ready to go!

The early flight soon caught up with Bailey.

Seffner Eagle or maybe it is just a turkey buzzard ?

2011-07-22T20:59:00.003-04:00

I walked out to get the mail one morning and when I turned around to go back I saw this HUGE bird on the peak of the house. Guess he was just taking a break.

Chameleon on the bamboo

2011-07-22T20:56:00.002-04:00

Pretty chameleon I spotted on the bamboo one day in the garden.

Some Old Photos . . .

2011-06-23T16:00:00.003-04:00

I bought a scanner this week and if I would have known it would have been so much fun, I would have bought one years ago.
Above is a photo of my grandad Perfect in the mail car of the Pennsylvania Railroad. He was a career mailman - but never door to door - always railcar to railcar. Leroy Franklin Perfect Sr. Skinny dude in the back with the white shirt.

This is my Aunt Pat McClain and my mom Gail Ann Penney. This was shot in 1982 in the backyard of our house on Seville Drive in Englewood, Ohio.

In this photo you see my grandmother Lois Laura McClain (Heinbeck then Logsdon) and my mom Gail Ann Heinbeck. Grandma is smokin in more ways than one!

Grandad Perfect on the left and Joe Heinbeck (Grandpa Joe) on the right.

Grandpa Joe Heinbeck and mama (toddler!) Gail Ann Heinbeck.

How old is Jeffrey Perkins from the Paul Thorn Band (he's 53 and married)

2011-06-23T07:06:00.005-04:00

If you have a blog and are interested in who hits your blog and how they find it, you can attach a widget to track the hits. The results are kind of vague but sometimes it is fun (to me!) to see these stats. So, last night I clicked the widget and as I was scrolling down I see that someone hit on my Paul-A-Palooza post.

A person from Livonia, MI was trying to determine the age of Jeffrey Perkins! It is the last line in this screen shot. To enlarge, click the photo. You can also click the Feedjit Live Traffic Feed Real Time View link (on the right side of the screen, scroll down) if you want to see these stats.

Dexter, Elsie, and Annie in the pool . . . plus a couple of shots of Elsie and her big teeth

2011-06-12T08:07:00.005-04:00

Not sure what has the attention of the chihuahuas but Dexter seems to be completely relaxed.

Gaspars Brunch with a few friends and it was David's birthday too!

2011-05-29T20:03:00.006-04:00

David and his mama, Ann.

It's all about the shoes. And Nick forgot his. Poor thing, was at brunch shoeless.

Michele wanted to practice her mean face. Actually, I think I did or said something that made her show me her mean face. I've already forgotten what I did to inspire the face.

Father and son outside Gaspar's. This is a good shot...but....

This is even better! Tracy and Shelley :)

Mac Arnold and Plate Full O Blues at the Orange Peel for LEAF

2011-05-29T19:56:00.003-04:00

What a treat to see this show at the Peel. The description is below and I posted many videos on You Tube.

Thanks to Mac Arnold and the band for working so hard to keep the music alive.

http://www.macarnold.com/about.html

MAC ARNOLD & PLATE FULL O’BLUES will put on a special family-friendly, community outreach performance on Monday morning, May 16, 2011. Mac Arnold is a Blues legend and one of the last to have worked with everyone from Muddy Waters to James Brown. Mac is a 2010 recipient Best Historical Album from the 31st Blues Music Awards for his participation on the 1966 recording Muddy Waters – Authorized Bootleg: Live at the Fillmore Auditorium (Geffen Records). Mac Arnold’s first band included James Brownon piano and when he moved to Chicago Muddy Waters hired him on the spot. He has recorded LPs with Otis Spann and John Lee Hooker. Mac moved to Los Angeles and produced Soul Train with his friend Don Cornelius. He even played bass on the Sanford & Son television show when he wasn’t playing bass for Otis Redding and B.B. King. Backed by his band, Mac Arnold does vocals, plays bass and his iconic Gas Can Guitars. Mac will showcase his Blues in the Schools program where he explains his legendary role in American Blues history.

LEAF (Lake Eden Arts Festival) brings many international and acclaimed artists to the festival. Through LEAF in Schools & Streets (LSS), many of the artists also REACH OUT to our local community through workshops, residencies, and enrichment programs. This special event is focused on creating arts and cultural opportunities for families, school groups and the general community. LEAF in Schools & Streets (LSS) has provided low-cost pricing to make this performance accessible to schools, families & the general community.

The Orange Peel, Asheville, NC and the Big Ass Fan

2011-05-20T08:11:00.003-04:00

Kerrie's Garden, Denny's Car in Asheville

2011-05-20T07:56:00.006-04:00

Kerrie has a beautiful garden and home. Above is a Japanese Maple (bonsai!) and below a Royal Ponciana Tree (also bonsai!). Incredible.

Some random shots of the gardens.

A volunteer foxglove down by the small barn.

With the new blogspot site I can't seem to get all photos to rotate and display correctly. Well, I'm over it. Tired of trying to figure it out. So, from time to time you will see photos that are sideways, etc. So sorry. Here's Kerrie's subtle yellow toyota.

Kerrie took us for a ride in Denny's Galaxie 500.

Vikki and Shelley in Knoxville

2011-05-20T07:43:00.003-04:00

In downtown Knoxville there is a HUGE sculpture built into the ground of a boy in a sinking rowboat. It seemed like a good photo opp.

Paul Thorn at the Orange Peel in Asheville with the Greencards

2011-05-20T07:15:00.013-04:00

Last weekend I travelled to Asheville to visit Rocky, Jean, and Kerrie. Liz went along and Vikki drove south from Cincinnati and completed the ensemble. As an added bonus, I was fortunate to hang out with one of my favorite groups, the Paul Thorn Band.

The boys enjoying mom's cookies. Thanks to Vikki for transporting the goods from Dayton.

We made a new friend, David Guerra from NYC. He was walking by the OP and stopped. We started talking, he didn't have a ticket, I had a few extra... he bought one and the rest is history. Another PTB fan! Nice meeting you David.
When the Greencards come to your town, do yourself a HUGE favor and take the time to see this incredible band. High energy, exceptional musicians, and a lot of fun to watch. I hope they make it to Tampa soon.

Paul Thorn at the Bijou Theatre in Knxoville

2011-05-20T07:15:00.012-04:00

I made 2 more new friends at this show. Paul's shows have this affect on people it seems. Patti Zimmerman and Suzy Rogers.

Here's Ralph shaking it for the crowd. The Bijou Theatre reminded me of the Tampa Theatre but on a smaller scale. It was a very nice place to have a show and all participants were having a great time. After the Two Loud Bitches left it got even better. One of my fav memories is Paul and his new Knock-Knock joke written on the spot.

Dogs in the garden

2011-05-05T13:04:00.002-04:00

Size check... Elsie and Annabelle Beep-Beep

2011-05-04T07:20:00.008-04:00

Elsie at 9 months old. The Cutest Dog in the World.

Annie at 9 months.

An update on the Perfect Pine forest

2011-04-20T11:47:00.004-04:00

Here's a link to my original post about the Perfect Pine Forest:

http://shelleyperfect.blogspot.com/2009/01/perfect-pine-forest.html

Shot in 2009 when the trees had been in the ground a short time:

Shot April 20, 2011:

Some views of the garden

2011-04-20T11:44:00.004-04:00

Tiki head with hair plants.

The blue salvia is going wild out front. The honey bees love it. You can hear the buzzing when you walk out there and see the movement as they go from bloom to bloom.

The dark green plant to the left with the orange just beginning to show is a wonderful hummingbird attractor. The hummers also like the bottle brush trees and blue salvia in the front yard. I see hummers once a day but I think their time is limited ... I'm sure they are just stopping by on their way north.

My key lime bit the dust two years ago so I decided to put one in a movable pot and so far so good. This one is covered with tiny limes. I see pie in my future.

Annie loves to be outside.

In the center of this garden I used to have a HUGE fishtail palm. It is still there, it is just slow growing back after the last two freezing winters.

This year I bucked the trend and advice of The Expert Gardeners and fertilized and pruned right after the first frost. I figured...the fertilizer takes a while to break down and be absorbed by the plant... then the plant has to generate new growth... so, why not give them a boost in January. My theory worked... just after the massive application of milorganite and pruning the brown growth mother nature rained a few times and now I see the fruits of my early labor.

Even the bamboo is doing great. New growth, sprouts, cane... I know I will have to repeat this process in January but I'm happy to have so much new growth and color this early in the year.

Elsie and Annie napping

2011-04-20T11:42:00.002-04:00

I guess they are dog-tired today.

Miss Daisy Helping Herself

2011-04-20T11:40:00.001-04:00

I was filling Daisy's feeder. I walked away to throw away the empty bag and turned around to see this:

Happy Birthday Tracy - At Ace's with Kenny Neal

2011-03-27T20:45:00.006-04:00

Tracy prefers pie to cake so I surprised her with a stop at http://millersdutchkitchen.com/ and let her pick her birthday pies. Dutch Apple and Peanut Butter Chocolate. Oh My. We ate a slice of each and sent the leftovers with the band. Kenny sang just to us it seemed.

Selwyn Birchwood took the stage for a couple of songs.Shelley and Charlie Paul, Kenny's manager. I met these guys a few years ago at Skipper's but tonight I learned that Charlie is also a former NBA player. http://hoopedia.nba.com/index.php?title=Charlie_Paulk

Kenny and the girls. Photo by Scott Lynch.

TCM Road to Hollywood Smokey and the Bandit at Tampa Theatre w/ Ben Makiewicz & Burt Reynolds

2011-03-27T20:39:00.004-04:00

Here is a link to the first part of the interview, part 2 is available once you get to the site:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7W80QctKSE

Burt out in the crowd:

Shelley and The Trans Am:Ben Makiewicz spent some time chatting with us before the event. Very nice guy. Easy on the eyes too. :)

Sunken Gardens with the Penneys, Emily, and David

2011-03-27T20:26:00.003-04:00

Luckily we had a great designated driver!

Bok Tower Gardens with the Penneys

2011-03-27T20:19:00.003-04:00

It was a beautiful day to visit Bok Tower. We strolled through the gardens and made our way to the tower to hear the bells. After this peaceful time we ate a yummy lunch in their cafe and I bought enough plants from their garden center to fill the back of the wagon! Just before John fell (was pushed?) into the pond. Ok, just kidding, he didn't really go into the drink.

Enjoying the lawn near the tower.

Henry B. Plant Museum / University of Tampa / Babe Ruth's longest homer

2011-03-27T20:01:00.003-04:00

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_B._Plant_Museum If you ever get to Tampa, take a couple of hours and visit the campus of UT. Originally built as a hotel in the late 1800's, it is now a vibrant college. A museum is located near the entrance and you are also permitted to stroll the halls and look around. After working our way through the museum, we walked down to the river. The students who are also enlisted were practicing (not sure of the correct term) around campus - even near the sun bathing girls! This is a shot of the hillsborough river with some guy who just totally walked into the shot. Also on campus is the site of Babe Ruth's longest homer. I think that means his longest home run but I guess they couldn't fit that on the sign.

Tennis with Tracy on Davis Island

2011-03-27T19:59:00.002-04:00

Well, we didn't actually play... we just watched and enjoyed the beautiful view of Harbor Island. Tracy plays a couple of times a week at this tennis club. After her match we went to Estella's for tacos and then to a little place next door for ice cream and basketball on the TV.

Mom, Elsie, and Annie

2011-03-27T19:48:00.000-04:00

Just a couple of shots of mom and the girls relaxing on the sofa.

Annie and the charger. . . Anyone have one they need to sell?

2011-03-02T08:26:00.003-05:00

Annie is such a good puppy. Look at that face. How could one resist?

She obviously has many toys from which to choose.... as well as unlimited bully sticks (organic of course!) and an occasional steak or rib bone to satisfy that puppy urge to chew.However, she discovered the blackberry charger (a universal charger, I just happen to need this style for my phone) and look at the results. I'm not mad or upset, it is my fault that it was within her reach. However.... this is/was the only wall charger I have/had... I can go buy one or quickly get one on ebay. But if you are like me, you have this drawer of old electronic cords, adapters, and other unknown thingys that you can't throw out just yet. If you find yourself in this position with an extra wall charger with the metal thingy as shown in the photo below, I'd be glad to pay for it and shipping to get it from your junk drawer to my blackberry.

Just in case you are wondering how is SHELLEY GOING SURVIVE WITHOUT HER LINK TO THE WORLD .... fear not... I can charge via usb and the computer but that will not help when I'm traveling or otherwise away from SHELLEY'S OTHER LINK TO THE WORLD! If you read this and you know me and can help me out, send me an email, text, or call. If you are reading this and you don't know me but want to send me some charger love, leave me a comment with your email address and I'll make payment arrangements. THANKS in advance if you are my saviour!

Nashville via Muscle Shoals and Florence, AL

2011-02-16T16:02:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago we travelled to Nashville with the ultimate destination being Florence, AL. Why in the world Florence? You have to know it involved the Paul Thorn Band. :)
Of course there are no pics of me but here's a couple of Liz.

In the gift shop of the Ryman:
At the sound board in Studio B:

Here's a link to one of the videos I shot:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLCeLIWWuBE

Paul broadcasted this show live over the internet and also recorded it for a DVD to be released later this year.

For more highlights of this trip check www.whereselsie.blogspot.com

Of course THEY were there and had a lot of fun.

RIP Dice Man. . . you are GREATly missed

2011-01-25T08:05:00.003-05:00

We love you Dice Man.

Happy Birthday to The Cutest Dog in the World (TCDITW) ELSIE

2011-01-22T10:13:00.001-05:00

Five years old today.

Happy Birthday Baby - ELVIS

2011-01-08T12:29:00.004-05:00

Dogs in the blanket . . . or little piggies in the blankets

2010-12-31T15:47:00.003-05:00

My sofa always has a few blankies ... usually they are not so nicely folded....

The dogs weren't in their beds so I called them and Annie popped out. Then Elsie showed her snout. Little cuddly puppies.

Later in the day all 3 sets of paws were napping.

Happy Holidays from Shelley and the Paws

2010-12-24T15:51:00.002-05:00

Self portrait. Me, Daisy, Elsie, and Annabelle Beep-Beep.

Holiday card 2010:

A little baking

2010-12-24T15:49:00.001-05:00

I've baked a little over the last few weeks.

Two precious little angels hanging out together

2010-12-18T17:30:00.002-05:00

Aren't they adorable!! They both had a chewie (aka bully stick) and were just hanging out, chewing, being so cute.... THEN....

Annabelle Beep-Beep decided she'd rather have Elsie's chewie.... Kujo Elsie returns!

Don't feel bad for Annie. Elsie acts like this but then gives her what she wants... notice the two chewies? One in Annie's mouth and the second by her paw?

Craig Van Tilbury memorial at Skipper's

2010-11-22T10:47:00.002-05:00

I'm about two months late in posting this too....
Music filled night with remarkable players on stage at Skipper's in memorial to Craig Van Tilbury.
Liz, Damon, Shelley, Ed http://www.tampabay.com/news/obituaries/article1116152.ece

One of the few videos I posted to You Tube. Damon Fowler, Chuck Riley, Jimmy Griswold, Ed Wright, and Sean Chambers.... alone they are incredible... together on stage, moving. This is a long jam and the video/audio isn't perfect. But if you've ever seen any of these men play live, you get it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATi7b-UN10U

This one features Freight Train Annie on vocals.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KTE3KXiXrg

IE and IA take a tour of KY and NC

2010-11-19T19:09:00.005-05:00

The first stop was Campton, KY. Here they are in the doghouse. Bo is interested in IE and IA. We had a great breakfast both mornings!

Horsing around.

We then headed to Asheville and visited the beautiful Grove Park Inn. This pumpkin is kinda small.

View of Asheville from one of the terraces at the Grove Park Inn.

In one of the large fireplaces in the lobby.

Stone work around the fireplace.

Downtown Asheville. Chasing squirrels.

Imitation Elsie and her new friend

2010-11-19T19:02:00.002-05:00

Imitation Elsie and

Imitation Annabelle Beep-Beep (Annie)

Fasten your seatbelt! We are headed to Atlanta...Knoxville...Campton, KY.... and finally....Asheville! YAY

Paul-A-Palooza weekend . . . Paul Thorn Band, September 2010

2010-11-19T18:26:00.009-05:00

I realized a few days ago that I had not blogged one of the big events that occurred in September!

What a fun weekend we had with Paul Thorn, Michael Graham, Jeffrey Perkins, Ralph Friedrichson, and Billy Hinds..... the Paul Thorn Band. Sheli, Ellen, Kathleen, and John arrived and the party began.

It all started in Orlando with a great show at the Social. We clowned around in the photo booth, drank a little tequila, and danced the night away. Unfortunately I don't have any photos from that exciting evening.

Friday night Paul played solo at Skipper's Smokehouse. We had a pre-show catered party for Paul and the band. I believe we had about 25 people for that dinner. My photos aren't the greatest and a few peeps are missing due to over-exposed shots. But I had lots of fun with Tracy, Sharon, Mark, Michelle, Bailey, Joni, Dan, Cheryl, Gary, Vicki, Adam, Liz, Scott, Sheli, Ellen, Kathleen, John, Paul, Ralph, Michael, Billy, Jeffrey.... and gee, I can't remember! Paul getting some feedback from the crowd.

Shelley, Vicki, and Gary.
Oh yeah, I had a cake made with the image of his latest CD. He really liked the cake!

He's obviously really listening to someone else and has no idea I am over his shoulder.

A few of use before the feeding began. I love Ralph's Napoleon Dynamite pose! Love ya Ralph.

Cute, Cute, Cute Bailey. Shelley and Cheryl below:

Sheli Marie, Shelley Renee, and Bailey. The girls.

Paul on stage at Skipper's.

Another cute shot of Miss Bailey.
Paul on stage, again. :)

Paul makes it known that he loves Spam, Yoo-Hoo, moon pies, and other junk food...including Cracker Jack. Fans always bring him something... this show he was given a bag of CJ. He couldn't wait... he had to rip it open and see his prize. He was disappointed in the prize but loved the gift of CJ.
This is one of my fav weird pics. My camera settings were not correct so few of my pics look good. However, I love this pic of the group. Paul is in total focus while everyone else is blurred. I thought it was kinda cool.

Saturday night was the final show of the Paul Trifecta. At the Ritz in Ybor City Paul played (along with about 10 other bands) for the wmnf.org birthday bash.

Jeffrey behind the drums:
Paul and Elsie

Shelley and Michael

Daisy - before and after

2010-11-19T13:07:00.002-05:00

Here's Daisy Cat with her almost-grown-out hair.

Here's a version of my fantastic hair cut.

Here's she partially grown out - and doing a little cardio.

Another one of my beautiful trim jobs. I love her like this - she's texturized. Note the very dirty paws. Obviously she's been out in the garden.

Well, I decided last week to splurge and take her to the groomer for a real shave. Isn't she lovely!

Also, that is an automatic feeder. It is one of the best investments I've made all year. PLUS Daisy is so smart now. She knows how to tell time. She knows when it is 7:30 am and 7:30 pm. Amazing!

Daisy, Elsie, and Annie lazing around with me and the Kindle

2010-11-19T12:49:00.000-05:00

EPCOT food and wine event November 7, 2010

2010-11-19T12:20:00.004-05:00

A fun Sunday with Tracy, Scott, and Liz. This is my favorite time to go to EPCOT. I'm not big on amusement parks but EPCOT knows how to throw a party each fall. If you are ever around Orlando during this event, try to go.
Here's Tracy with yummy perogies. Next stop, lava cake.

There is a place in EPCOT (Coke World) where you can taste sodas from around the globe. Some were good, some not so good.

GREAT Greyhound Picnic Sunday 10/31/2010

2010-11-02T19:30:00.004-04:00

What a fun day at the park raising funds for GREAT - Greyhound Rescue of Tampa.Annie won third prize in the scariest category. HA Little Land Shark

This greyhound costume was a winner!

Elsie went as a piggy. She is a little piggy right now. She's put on a pound over the last month due all of the puppy food she's been eating...

Thanks Aunt Liz for the adorable costumes. We have our outfits planned for next year!

Damon Fowler and Bob Margolian at Ace's 10/30/2010 ... and a Halloween Party too!

2010-11-02T19:24:00.003-04:00

Damon as Bob:

Damon Fowler and Bob Margolian: Damon played the first set and then joined Bob for the second and third sets. There were many interesting costumes..... Like this guy who wore this pumpkin on his head the entire night. A real pumpkin. This clown scared me all night and kept squeaking that toy at everyone.

Under this scary mask you'd find Branson.

Eric Lindell, World of Beer Octoberfest, Tampa 2010

2010-10-30T13:07:00.003-04:00

Self portrait. Love my Eric. Mercy Me. Can't wait 'til the Bluesfest in the spring when he returns.

Eric and Jessica above.... Eric and Joni below.... 2 new Eric fans. The party grows. :)

Annabelle Beep Beep is three months old today

2010-10-28T08:23:00.003-04:00

Annie at 2 months:10/28/2010
Annie at 3 months:

Like a true nature's child... we were born, born to be wild.... Elsie and Annie: my little rock stars!

2010-10-25T10:08:00.004-04:00

Thanks to Aunt Cheryl for our oh-so-cool new shirts!

This is the first time Annie has worn a shirt. She wouldn 't walk! I had to carry her out and put her on the chair. Below is a video of her attempting to walk. She will be 12 weeks old on 10/28/2010.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fdh2Msq-JCY

Spooky Fun Halloween Scrapbook 6" x 12"

2010-10-25T09:56:00.005-04:00

Above is the cover with the next few pics being the inside layouts. Photos will be attached here and there. This is a gift for a friend who hosts yearly halloween parties. I hope to get some pics in here before I give it to her. I want some pics of her as a youngster all dressed up and ready to go trick-or-treating. :)

I have no idea why some pics are right-side-up and others are sideways. I've deleted and re-uploaded twice and am not gonna spend (waste!) any more time on this post! You get the idea, dontcha?

Back cover.

Me and Eric Lindell at BB Kings, Orlando

2010-10-23T13:45:00.001-04:00

It's raining cats and dogs. Be careful to not step in a poodle...

2010-10-23T13:43:00.001-04:00

Soon to be made into some sort of card....

A few more shots of the TCDITW and TCPITW

2010-10-18T14:33:00.001-04:00

Craft day with GREAT greyhound rescue - SKI NUTS!

2010-10-18T14:24:00.006-04:00

Many stages of Ski-Nuts

My Gam and I used to make these ski nuts tree ornaments for her to sell at Perfect North Slopes. Grandad would crack the walnuts and pick out the meat for us and glue the halves back together.

This year I decided to make a group for the greyhound group to use for their gift wrapping benefit at Barnes and Nobles.

Liz helped me crack and pick the walnut meat out of the shells. (I made brownies with the nuts.)

You need toothpicks for the ski poles, pop sticks for skis, and of course acorns for the heads.

They are labor intensive but oh-so-cute.

Welcome Home committee

2010-10-18T13:17:00.004-04:00

When I have to leave the house, I put the crate in the doorway of my bedroom. The dogs have the run of that room and can see out. This is how they look when I return home. They also like to sleep in the crate throughout the day.

Annie's First Yappy Happy Hour, Dubliner, Tampa, 10.10.2010

2010-10-18T13:02:00.002-04:00

The both barely fit in the Dog In a Box. I guess I need a bigger box. (said in my best taco bell dog voice)

Elsie smiling. She was a total grump when she first came out of the box. Tight quarters.

This was a GREAT greyhound benefit. The hounds were lined up and ready for petting.

Elsie was a ham! Well, Elsie IS a ham.

Melinda and Kelly. Annie's feet didn't touch the ground. Imagine that.

Size perspective.

Many Mini Cards

2010-10-18T12:46:00.002-04:00

Various sentiments, some blank inside. I have had a lot of fun making these 3"x3" cards.

Elsie, Annie, and Dexter just hanging out in the new beds

2010-10-01T21:06:00.002-04:00

Dexter stopped by tonight to hang out with his babes.

Annabelle Beep-Beep Perfect and Elsie

2010-09-30T21:11:00.004-04:00

...and a couple of videos....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZS10e4xPUs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3U9IISy4H8

Elsie and her new puppy

2010-09-25T18:23:00.001-04:00

After a romp in the yard Enjoying a bully stick together

Watching over the puppy

Tired puppy

Some videos of them playing:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALVaJJYDMfk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMwG_EP2qLI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qodo484VMf4

Palm Tree Removal

2010-09-25T17:35:00.005-04:00

I noticed a week ago that a palm tree had died. Gary took care of it for me. Thanks Gary!I showed him an old tiki head I have in my garden from the 60's. Back then, peeps used to cut down palm trees, carve faces in them, and sell them along the road to tourists. Of course Gary wanted to try it.

Finished product!